Author: Scott Dylan

The implementation of Labour’s proposed VAT on private school fees is under scrutiny. The policy’s potential violation of human rights laws has triggered a High Court challenge.Sinclairslaw is spearheading this legal battle, particularly concerned about its impact on children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). This could mark the beginning of broader legal implications.Human Rights Concerns and Legal ArgumentsThe primary argument against Labour’s proposed VAT on private school fees is grounded in human rights concerns. Sinclairslaw asserts that imposing this tax discriminates against children with SEND, who may be forced out of private education due to increased costs.The legal…

Harlyn Solutions has secured a significant contract for the Moray West offshore wind farm. This new deal involves managing subsea cables, a critical component of one of Scotland’s largest renewable projects.Harlyn Solutions, based in Blyth, has been appointed by Ocean Winds to handle essential elements of the Moray West offshore wind farm. Ocean Winds, a joint venture between ENGIE and EDP Renewables, selected Harlyn for their proven capability in managing subsea cables effectively. This strategic partnership highlights the trust placed in Harlyn to deliver key logistical services vital for the wind farm’s success.Harlyn has a history of managing large cargo,…

Northumbrian Water Group has declared a return to pre-tax profitability, the first in four years, signalling a transformative phase for the utility provider.With heightened revenues of £952.4m, the organisation demonstrated resilience by overcoming previous losses, contributing to a growth in dividends to its overseas proprietors.The financial turnaround for Northumbrian Water Group is underscored by a reported pre-tax profit of £6.1m for the fiscal year. This marks a resolute contrast to the previous year’s substantial loss of £49.7m, reflecting effective strategic interventions.The group’s revenues surged from £899.9m to £952.4m, an indicator of robust operational improvements. This upward trend facilitated an increase…

Banks in the UK will soon be granted new powers to freeze large payments for up to four days as part of updated fraud prevention measures set to take effect this autumn.Initially, banks could only hold payments for 24 hours but, starting from 7 October, this period will be extended when there are reasonable grounds to suspect fraud or suspicious activity.Introduction of New PowersBanks in the UK will soon have new powers to freeze large payments suspected of fraud. This change comes into effect on 7 October, part of updated fraud prevention measures.The updated rules will allow banks to freeze…

Millions of pensioners living alone could soon see a significant increase in their council tax bills. The possible removal of the 25% single-person discount is putting additional financial strain on older people.This comes at a time when pensioners are already dealing with the potential loss of winter fuel payments. The potential changes have sparked widespread concern among advocacy groups and members of parliament.Impact on PensionersThe possible abolition of the single-person council tax discount could affect around half of the 8.4 million people benefiting from it, many of whom are retirees. This discount currently reduces the average Band D council tax…

Royal Mail’s CEO has issued a stark warning to Labour and ministers about the need to support postal reforms. Without these changes, the consequences could be severe for both the company and the government.The urgency around postal reform has never been greater, with Royal Mail’s future hanging in the balance. The universal service obligation (USO) is at the heart of this debate, and changes are crucial for Royal Mail’s continued viability.The universal service obligation (USO) mandates uniform pricing for deliveries across the UK, regardless of location. However, with declining letter volumes and rising parcel deliveries, this requirement appears increasingly outdated.…

The UK’s Financial Ombudsman Service reported a record high in fraud complaints from April to June, with 8,734 cases filed.This surge coincides with the introduction of new rules obligating banks to reimburse victims of authorised push payment fraud, aimed to enhance consumer protection.The Financial Ombudsman Service has logged an unprecedented number of fraud complaints, reaching 8,734 cases between April and June. This marks the highest quarterly total since precise record-keeping began in early 2018. Such an escalation underscores the mounting pressure on financial institutions to address fraud comprehensively.The complexity of APP fraud often involves multiple financial institutions, complicating the reimbursement…

Anthony Scaramucci has voiced concerns over a potential capital tax on unrealised gains, citing severe implications for the US capital markets.In an exclusive interview, he shared his insights on the feasibility of the tax, market reliance on certain tech giants, and the future of cryptocurrencies.In an exclusive interview, Scaramucci expressed scepticism regarding the feasibility of a capital tax on unrealised gains, proposed by Kamala Harris. He argued that it would struggle to gain sufficient support within the Democratic Party. “Listen, that’s never going to happen,” Scaramucci stated. “They don’t have enough Democratic votes to pass that. No Republican I know…

This week, notable promotions and appointments have taken place in the North East region, reflecting ongoing development in the business sphere. Companies are actively engaging in strategic personnel changes to enhance organisational effectiveness and sustain growth.The recent appointments within Constructing Excellence North East, UNW, Pulman Group, and Azets highlight the dynamic nature of regional business operations. Each of these entities is fostering leadership that aims to address emerging industry challenges while promoting inclusivity and innovation.Constructing Excellence North East: Leadership AppointmentsDarush Dodds has been named chair of the People Group at Constructing Excellence North East, supported by Angela Carney as vice…

Welsh Water has recently raised £600 million through a bond issuance, marking its return to the financial markets after a three-year hiatus.This significant move is set to support a robust investment programme, ensuring the company’s future growth and sustainability.Welsh Water’s Strategic Move into the Bond MarketWelsh Water, known as Dŵr Cymru, has accomplished a significant achievement by securing £600 million through a new bond issuance. This initiative marks its first return to the bond market in three years, demonstrating a strategic approach to funding. Notably, this issuance is one of the largest within the UK bond market this year, signifying…